What is easier for us—to give to others, or to receive from them?
When my wife and I were married, we chose to wash each other’s feet during our ceremony. This simple act showed a deep kind of love. We humbled ourselves and chose to receive from each other.
Many of us in Recovery find it hard to let others love us. We often feel more comfortable giving than receiving. But Recovery is not held together by our effort. It is held together by grace. Receiving is a gift. It can make us feel vulnerable and not in control. It is not something we earn.
It is often easier to serve than to sit still and receive the healing power of Recovery.
Sometimes, we are not willing to let Recovery (God) come close to us. When I washed my wife’s feet, I came close to her humbly and lovingly. She saw how much it meant. Then she did the same for me. In that moment, we both gave and received love.
In Recovery, we are asked to surrender and let go. Our effort alone cannot change us. We need Recovery (God). Recovery teaches us how to receive love, care, and support from others. It fills us with new life.
When we finally allow ourselves to receive, we often wonder why we waited so long. The people in our lives are a true gift. We just need to give ourselves permission to receive that gift and ask for help along the way.
This is how we become strong in Recovery:
Being bold.
Being imperfect.
Being present.
